Keolis North America awarded MBTA contract

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has awarded Keolis North America a $2.6-billion, eight-year contract to manage, operate and maintain the passenger rail service. The contract includes the option for two additional two-year extensions and if granted, the total contract value would rise to $4.2 billion over 12 years.

"The MBTA is looking forward to this partnership as we launch an exciting new era in commuter rail service," said MBTA General Manager Dr. Beverly Scott. "The new commuter rail contract will lead to an enhanced customer experience, more effective management and greater operator accountability."

"We are extremely proud to be selected to manage the MBTA, one of the premiere commuter rail systems in the country," said Keolis North America President Steve Townsend. "We pride ourselves in how we are 'thinking like a passenger' in operating a commuter rail system, improving customer service, on-time performance and value for both the passenger and the system owner."

Keolis North America will begin operating the MBTA line on July 1, 2014.